Sandwiched here between Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day, it only seems fitting to honor a true American hero. Michael Anthony Monsoor – a son, brother, and U.S. Navy SEAL — is the epitome of what a man should be. Not only did he courageously serve his country, but he also served his fellow Navy brothers on the battlefield.
On September 29, 2006, Monsoor and two fellow SEALs were positioned on a rooftop in Ramadi, Iraq. Having been there for some time, engaging in gunfire very sporadically, Monsoor was hit in the chest with a hand grenade. With a fuse-time of only 5 or 6 seconds, Monsoor could only utter the single word, "grenade!," before he threw himself on the live explosive, saving his Navy brothers from the full brunt of the blast. However, 30 minutes later, Michael Monsoor would die, having sacrificed his own life for his brothers. You see, Michael had the only opportunity of the three to avoid the blast, but instead "embraced" it.
Michael is said to have been a special and determined man, even in early life, but his fervent determination to become a U.S Navy SEAL was one that surprised even his own family. On April 8, 2008, Monsoor was posthumously rewarded, by President George W. Bush, America's greatest military award, the Medal of Honor.
This country and this world is a much better place for God's gift of Michael Monsoor. We all should thank Him, as we sleep soundly in our beds tonight.
MASTER AT ARMS SECOND CLASS, SEA, AIR and LAND
MICHAEL A. MONSOOR
UNITED STATES NAVY
Ron, Thank You for spotlighting this story on MTW. Many of my friends have either served or still serve in the US Military.
Stories like that of Michael A. Monsoor should give us a deeper appreciation for this country and the people who make it great!
Oftentimes, as civilians we take for granted the safety and freedom we enjoy because others have given up theirs.
An Ovation to all our Servicemen, past, present and future.
Too many have the nerve to bitch of war……..too few have the honor of service. Too many want the freedoms of life , without the fact of sacrifice….you know , the easy street…..that’d be great in a perfect world.
I am thankful for those men and women who serve gratefully, most just for the honor to serve. Great men do great things even though they may be previously known as just another “average Joe”.
If more in this ‘ole world were of the mindset of Mr. Monsoor, we would have no need for war.
Great little post. With so many negative stories around, it’s refreshing to hear something so positive. Thanks for bringing it to my attention.
Thanks, guys.
I forgot to mention that Mikey (his nickname) had no wife and kids back home, but he was well aware that the two men he saved did.
I guess he’s just another “baby killer,” right?